In the sad city of Christchurch

I have come to Christchurch in my role as a Workplace Support Chaplain. I have had a day of talking to people who are helping the effort here. There is some sad devastation. 3 things.

• Three of us from Workplace Support have been walking in high-viz jackets and hard hats around various sites all day. We have been going through cordons and talking with people. We have been warmed by the warmth of people. The people we are staying with already have family with them because of the tragedy but they are bending over backwards to host us with love and care. Police personnel, local council workers, fire fighters and everybody today has been warm and welcoming and friendly.
• While we were at the collapsed Pine Gould building the rescue workers asked for silence Everyone stopped talking, generators were turned off and without exception everyone stopped and listened. We stopped hoping that we would hear a sound from within the rubble. It was a long moment of prayerful longing as people stood ears concentrating for some sound of life. Sadly none came, but if ever there was a moment of prayer that was it.
• People are pulling together. As we drove down Marshlands road there were every now and then signs saying "Water and power here" or "Free water" (with a hose and a tap). People sharing what little they had. We saw neighbours working together shoveling liquification sand out of the way. The human spirit of love and care is there.

It is absolutely indescribable walking among the rubble. Being near a collapsed building and knowing there are someones loved ones dead inside. We walked passed restaurants that still have cups and plates still on the table, sandwich boards on the streets but open and empty, lights still going but open and empty like someone has just somehow vanished the people. That's all I can say, it really is indescribable! An intensely moving day! Wish me luck, I am here till Saturday I think. I believe we have done well today! We just hope to bring some sense of company, presence and solidarity to these people.